AP Physics: What’s the Difference Between AP Physics 1 & 2 and Physics C?
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AP Physics 1 and 2 are algebra-based courses that cover a broad range of topics, while AP Physics C is calculus-based and focuses on a more in-depth study of fewer topics.
AP Physics 1:
– Covers mechanics, including concepts such as motion, forces, energy, momentum, and rotational motion.
– Emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving skills through conceptual understanding and experimental design.
AP Physics 2:
– Follows AP Physics 1 and deals with fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.
– Like Physics 1, it also emphasizes practical applications and understanding of physical principles.
AP Physics C:
– Divided into two separate subject areas: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism.
– Uses calculus, which allows for a deeper analysis of concepts such as acceleration, force, energy, charge, electric fields, and circuits.
– Designed for students who have a strong foundation in mathematics and allows for more rigorous problem-solving.
In summary, AP Physics 1 and 2 are broader and less mathematically intensive, while AP Physics C is more specialized and requires calculus knowledge for a deeper exploration of physics concepts.
AP Physics 1 and 2 are algebra-based courses that cover a broad range of topics, while AP Physics C is calculus-based and focuses on a more in-depth study of fewer topics.
AP Physics 1:
– Covers mechanics, including concepts such as motion, forces, energy, momentum, and rotational motion.
– Emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving skills through conceptual understanding and experimental design.
AP Physics 2:
– Follows AP Physics 1 and deals with fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.
– Like Physics 1, it also emphasizes practical applications and understanding of physical principles.
AP Physics C:
– Divided into two separate subject areas: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism.
– Uses calculus, which allows for a deeper analysis of concepts such as acceleration, force, energy, charge, electric fields, and circuits.
– Designed for students who have a strong foundation in mathematics and allows for more rigorous problem-solving.
In summary, AP Physics 1 and 2 are broader and less mathematically intensive, while AP Physics C is more specialized and requires calculus knowledge for a deeper exploration of physics concepts.